The Immaculate Conception & Our Advent Journey

Today, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is also a Holy Day of Obligation.  Many think that the Immaculate Conception is celebrating the conception of Jesus; however, it celebrates Mary's conception in St. Anne's womb.  Interestingly enough, the Gospel depicts Mary finding out from the angel Gabriel that she will bear a son named Jesus.

Upon looking at today's Gospel, something struck me.  Mary was no doubt, nervous of what she had just been asked to do.  It is generally thought that Mary was a teenager in this Gospel.  Unwed women who became pregnant at the time were subject to stoning, so she had every right to be scared.  However, the angel says to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God."  Mary's response is, "How can this be?"  She is nervous.

The angel goes on to tell her that "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you.  Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God..."  What strikes me is Mary's willingness after all of this dialogue, as she says, "Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord.  May it be done to me according to your word."


I think that this dialogue - this Gospel - can be a meditation for us this Advent.  In Advent we are preparing for the coming of the Lord, in addition to Christmas.  We have to prepare our hearts for both of these important events.

Is there something that is causing us to be afraid or something that is keeping us from saying "May it be done to me"?  We pray this all the time in the Our Father by saying, "Thy will be done."

Perhaps it's something at work, school, home, or with one's own spiritual life.  Regardless, Advent is a great time to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation.  Maybe it's been awhile, but Jesus is always willing to say, "Welcome back," no matter how long it has been.  It's a great opportunity to let go of whatever is preventing us from being ready for what is to come.

Two important reminders for our Advent journey: do not be afraid and thy will be done.

Chris Hughes